The Diary of a Neighbourhood Menace

The Diary of a Neighbourhood Menace is a hilarious, fun, heart-warming, and wonderfully chaotic illustrated children's chapter book, for ages 5 to 12. Written in the voice of 10-year-old Penelope, it's a laugh-out-loud journey through one unforgettable summer filled with wild adventures, daring schemes, and glitter-fuelled mysteries.

Penelope, her mischievous little brother Justin, and their quick-witted Grandpa never mean to cause trouble—it just kind of happens. From backyard stakeouts to glittery raccoon chases, tomato tornadoes to secret spy missions gone wrong, every page is packed with surprises. And when the neighbour’s prized garden gnome mysteriously disappears, it’s up to Penelope and her family to crack the case (even if it means building squirrel forts and setting fishy traps).
Set in the present day but with the spirit of kids raised in the wild, imaginative freedom of the 1970s, this story celebrates a way of growing up that’s hard to find now—where scraped knees, backyard adventures, and messy, real friendships were everyday magic. In a world full of helicopter parenting and strict rules, Penelope and her gang find ways to stay true to old-school values of creativity, resilience, and good old neighbourly tolerance (even when things get a little... glittery).

Packed with lively illustrations that bring every hilarious mishap to life, The Diary of a Neighbourhood Menace invites young readers to embrace adventure, mischief, and a healthy dose of forgiveness for those who sometimes colour outside the lines—literally. Perfect for kids who love funny, fast-paced stories about family, friendship, and growing up a little wild in a world that doesn't always understand.

Because sometimes, the best childhoods are the ones a little messy, a little noisy, and a whole lot unforgettable.